In pictures: Europe swelters under near-record temperatures

Much of Europe has been basking in a mini-heat wave since Friday, and countries like the UK, France and Spain have experienced near-record temperatures.

But with lockdowns and social distancing measures in place across the continent, this is a summer like no other.

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Image caption In Spain's capital, Madrid, face masks are compulsory due to an outbreak of cases - and coverings must be worn even during the heat

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Image caption A woman refreshes herself in the Spanish city of Córdoba where temperatures reached 40C

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Image caption People sunbathing while social distancing in London, UK, where temperatures hit 34C on Friday

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Image caption Locals have also been enjoying the beaches in Nijmegen in the Netherlands

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Image caption Residents have been finding creative ways to stay cool in Paris. France put 13 eastern areas of the country on alert due to the heat

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Image caption The authorities in Rome warned the elderly and children not to go out at the hottest times of the day because of dangerous temperatures

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Image caption People have been taking advantage of fountains to stay cool in Rome

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Image caption People have been diving into the sea in Barcelona, Spain, where authorities issued an orange alert for temperatures of up to 40C

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Image caption A heat wave alert was also issued for areas of southern Switzerland, including Geneva

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from Via PakapNews